How to Create a Successful Writing Career
by Mary Kole | Former literary agent, now a freelance editor, writing teacher, and IP/story developer for major publishers and creators.
Nurturing a successful writing career can be a challenge, but it’s far from impossible. With the right combination of hard work, dedication, and knowledge, you can start earning money and establishing yourself as an authority in the writing world. Whether you’re looking to write full-time or establish yourself as a freelance writer or even editor for hire, these tips will get you on the right track.
Develop Your Skills to Launch Your Writing Career
Writing is an art form that requires practice and dedication. To become successful in your writing career, you need to hone your storytelling craft and continually improve your skills. This means reading books on the subject and practicing regularly to develop your creative self. You might also consider taking courses offered at local universities, writing workshops, or community colleges that focus on topics such as grammar, punctuation, and proper formatting guidelines. You could even develop editor for hire skills in addition to working on your own writing. These two disciplines usually go hand in hand.
Find a Niche for Your Writing Career
To kickstart a successful writing career, it's important to find your specialty. Versatility is key in order to attract more customers, yet honing in on one particular area is essential—such as such as travel writing, YA romance, or middle grade fantasy. To make your talent shine and to help you win the hearts of potential clients or employers, it is important to stand out from other writers when building a writing career. Delve into various niches that interest you- find a target audience that piques your curiosity. It's better to specialize in one thing than to write about anything for anyone. Take some time to decide on your niche and then dive deep into it. A specialized writer can often command higher fees and even get a book deal for their work.
Research Potential Clients and Employers
If you want to make your writing your profession, you need to find businesses or individuals who need what you can offer. Designate some time each day or week to do research and explore companies that could be potential employers and may require someone with your talents. Look for job postings online or read through publishing industry--related publications for leads on companies that could use your help. You can also reach out directly via email if there isn't an open position listed but they are looking for content from freelance writers or even freelance editors in your niche.
Aspiring authors can achieve amazing success by honing their craft, digging into the details of the industry, and seeking out companies or clients that match their skills. A writing career is an incredible ambition to strive for and if you put in the effort, you can make money doing what you love. All it takes to get started is knowledge, determination, and a sense of where you belong in the wide world of available writing jobs out there. Soon, you will have a writing career you can be proud of.
Elevate Your Storytelling
Wherever you are in your writing journey—from an initial outline to a draft to pitching your project—the experienced team at Good Story Editing can take your work to the next level.